1952-2026
Linda Sue Thomas, 74, of Urbana, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, at Silvercrest of Urbana.
Linda was born on July 14, 1952, in Urbana, Ohio, to the late Howard and Rose Bishop. She was a graduate of Urbana High School, Class of 1970. In 1971, Linda married the love of her life, Randy Thomas, with whom she shared nearly 55 years of marriage.
Linda dedicated many years to the Urbana City Schools, where she worked as a librarian. She brought her love of books and her creativity into her work, often dressing up as characters from the books she was reading to her students. She had a special way of making books come alive and creating lasting memories for the children she served.
Outside of work, Linda was a woman of many interests. She loved crafting, especially painting rocks and making Christmas ornaments. She was a proud Auxiliary member of the VFW, American Legion, and AMVETS, and was also a member of the Moose Lodge and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Linda and Randy enjoyed riding in their Jeep with the top down and traveling to Florida. Some of her favorite memories were made on girls' trips with Connie, Julia, Jeanie, and Sandy. She also treasured the friendships she shared with Betty Channel, Ann Heffner, Jan Forsbach, and Lois Lehman, who held a special place in her heart.
Linda was known for being the one who was "in charge," a reflection of her strong personality and caring nature. Beneath that determination was a woman who loved her family deeply and treasured the time she spent with them.
Linda is survived by her husband of nearly 55 years, Randy Thomas; her sons, Ryan (Sheri) Thomas and Rob Thomas; her brother, John (Connie) Bishop; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Rose Bishop, and her sister, Sandy Craig.
Linda will be remembered for her creativity, strong spirit, love of books, sense of adventure, and, most of all, the love she had for her family and friends. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.
A gathering of family and friends will be held from 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at VERNON FUNERAL HOME, Urbana, Ohio.
Graveside service will follow at 1:15 P.M. at Oakdale Cemetery, with Pastor Chris Dinnell officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Champaign County Cancer Society, PO Box 38125, Urbana, OH 43078, or The Champaign County Children’s Library, 1060 Scioto St., Urbana, OH 43078.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.vernonfh.com.
